The San José Police Department (SJPD) is exploring the possibility of using Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) technology, commonly referred to as a drone, in a limited scope.

About the UAS
Earlier in 2014, the Police Department obtained one UAS, specifically for the SJPD Bomb Unit. The UAS is a Century NEO 660 Hex-Rotor which has a GoPro camera for aerial video footage. The UAS is 3 feet wide and 1.5 feet tall.

If and when policies and procedures are drafted and finalized, the SJPD would ensure the UAS usage would be compliant with FAA regulations, federal and state law. The SJPD would also obtain a Certificate of Authorization (COA) from the FAA prior to using the UAS.

The SJPD is not using the UAS currently.

Public Meetings Coming Up1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 19, 2015: Public Safety, Finance, and Strategic Support Committee meeting in City Council Chambers.

Neighborhoods Commission Meeting, Nov. 13, 2014The SJPD made a presentation to the Neighborhoods Commission about the UAS on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2014. The purpose of the discussion was to seek input from the commissioners about whether UAS technology is appropriate for police to utilize in San José as well as to ask for the commission's assistance with community outreach.

View the PowerPoint presentation.
Community Outreach MeetingsFeb. 14, 2015This Community Outreach Meeting about the SJPD's proposed use of the UAS took place 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saturday, February 14, 2015 at the Mayfair Community Center, 2039 Kammerer Ave. The meeting was sponsored by the Neighborhoods Commission.View flyer for more meeting details.

Jan. 17, 2015Thepublic was invited to attend a community outreach meeting, hosted by the Neighborhoods Commission. The meeting took place from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 at the West Valley Branch Library, 1243 San Tomas Aquino Rd. Police gave presentation about the UAS and proposed uses, followed by a question and answer period with the public.View the flyer for more meeting details.

The City of San Joséis committed to open and honest government and strives to consistently meet the community’s expectations by providing excellent service, in a positive and timely manner, and in the full view of the public.